Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plantRobert Louis Stevenson

InspirEmail

InspirEmail No 110 - June 4, 2007'Inspirational messages to refresh the spirit and boost the emotional bank account'

The Power of Touch

Writer Gordon MacDonald said that each night he reads a story to his little daughter. One day he was preparing to be away from home for a few days and he taped a selection of stories for his daughter to listen to while he was gone.

When he came back, he was eager to hear his daughter's reaction. She answered, 'Dad, the stories were fine, but it wasn't the same - I couldn't sit on the tape recorder's lap.'

Too often we underestimate the power of touch. Negative as well as positive touch has the power to elicit strong emotions. It can hurt and it can heal. Touch people in a negative way and you may get a strong reaction you didn't expect. Touch them in a safe, affirming and affectionate way, and you'll probably get just as strong a response - only this one you will welcome.

Touch is powerful for infants. Newborns who are touched will thrive. Studies have shown that babies deprived of touch have a significantly higher mortality rate than those who are held and cuddled by caring adults - even when the 'touched' babies are reared in unsanitary conditions.

Touch is powerful for teenagers. Teens who are touched communicate better. Many adolescents assert their independence by refusing to be hugged by their parents. But most of them will accept a simple back or shoulder massage. That act of touch communicates love in a powerful way. It will frequently break down emotional barriers and even help young people to 'open' up and talk about what is on their minds.

Touch is powerful for adults. Both men and women who are touched are happier and healthier. According to University of Colorado researchers, most adults would like to be touched more. Holding a hand or offering a hug can warm hearts and heal relationships like nothing else can.

Touching is powerful. Learn the art of a caring touch and you'll discover a magical key that opens the lives and hearts of those you care about.

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June's Featured Inspiration

One More Time for Mum

'I just don't have the time,' she said. 'So many things have changed since then.' 'But you love performing,' I said. 'Yes, yes I do,' she said softly. I could see it in her eyes. They sparkled at the very thought of it. She had this smile that only comes from sweet memories. Her arms were . . .read the full story >>>

How to live a happy and rewarding life

Take time to smell the roses.

Take a nap on Sunday afternoon.

Drink 8 glasses of water a day.

Never deprive someone of hope. It might be all they have.

Be thankful for every meal.

Don't be afraid to say I'm sorry.

Don't take your health for granted.

Improve your performance by improving your attitude.

Listen to your children.

Leave everything a little better than you found it.

Keep it simple.

Keep good company.

Keep your promise.

Be kinder than necessary.

Take good care of those you love.

Make it a habit to do nice things.

Judge your success by the degree that you're enjoying peace, health and love.

Be a good loser and a good winner.

Be romantic.

Live so that when you your children think of fairness, caring and integrity, they think of you.

Remember other people's birthdays.

Sing in the shower.

Don't nag or be a gossip.

Don't tailgate.

Don't expect money to bring you happiness.

Be forgiving of yourself and others.

Never give up on anyone. Miracles happen every day.

Say thank you and please a lot.

Don't rain on other people's parades.

Don't postpone joy.

Don't blame others.

Take responsibility for every area of your life.

Take care of your reputation. It's your most valuable asset.

Count your blessings.

Whistle a lot.

Marry only for love.

Do more than is expected of you.

Be there when others need you.

Never sell yourself short.

Never be ashamed of honest tears.

Author Unknown

- Inspirational Quote -

Be what you are. This is the first step toward becoming better than you areAugust W. Hare